The MLA for Moncton Centre Chris Collins saw his life change when he was named the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick after the Liberals were elected to power in 2014.
But despite the fact that his life is a lot busier than it was before, there’s one thing he’ll never lose his passion for.
Chris Collins lost his son Sean in 2007, after a battle with cancer. He was just 13 years old, but since the day his Sean son was diagnosed, Chris vowed to fight this terrible disease and has committed himself to helping others overcome.
He says, “Children’s cancer is not a rare disease. It happens to one in ever few hundred children. It’s the largest non-accidental cause of death of children in Canada.”
Collins has an extensive involvement with cancer organizations across the country, “I’m currently serving on three national boards with regards to children’s cancer. I’ve worked with the coast to coast cancer foundation very closely.”
He says his schedule gets very busy, but he will always make to be an advocate, “If I ever find myself in a position where I don’t have time for that, then I’ll have to re-examine my priorities. I believe that we have to create awareness.”
In 2013, Collins took some time away from the legislature, and cycled 7000 kilometres as a participant in the Sears National Kids cancer Ride. He says he hopes to take part in a similar event in the future.
